The year was 1988; President Ronald Reagan created National Senior Citizens Day on August 21 with a proclamation, declaring that, “Throughout our history, older people have achieved much for our families, our communities, and our country. That remains true today, and gives us ample reason this year to reserve a special day in honor of the senior citizens who mean so much to our land. He further stated, “For all they have achieved throughout life and for all they continue to accomplish, we owe older citizens our thanks and a heartfelt salute.”
National Senior Citizens Day has since been observed annually on August 21. This is a day set aside to support, honor and show appreciation to our seniors.
At Assistive, we join in this recognition as an opportunity to communicate and share awareness in which we can increase the quality of life for our senior citizens.
Helping Aging Family Members Live Safely at Home
We know that when a family member reaches a certain point in the aging process, their ability begins to decline. Finding the right lifestyle change to fit their needs is one of life’s more exceptional challenges. You want them to maintain a sense of independence. It’s not time to uproot them from their home, but safety is a concern.
Home First services at Assistive focus on an important, but often overlooked way of making a home workable through the use of assistive technology (AT). We can help determine which AT devices can help your family member continue to live safely at home and do the activities they love to do.
Assistive staff can help with:
- Identifying the AT options that can meet your needs
- Providing hands on demonstrations where you can learn about and try different devices
- Linking you to AT device rental opportunities
- Giving you recommendations to help you select the right AT to keep you independent and safe in your home
- Providing resources for necessary home modifications which go beyond AT
- Connecting you with other AT devices and service providers for personalized support
- Assisting you with AT device set-up and training
Also, Assistive contracts with the Aging Services Division, ND Department of Human Services, to deliver the Assistive Safety Devices Distribution Service Program (ASDDS). This service, also known as the Senior Safety Program, makes it possible for those with aging-related disabilities remain safely in their homes for as long as possible with AT. Eligible residents receive a wide variety of assistive devices (up to $300 worth) free of charge. Funding support comes from the Older Americans Act.
Who is eligible for ASDDS?
Any North Dakota resident age 60 and over is eligible for this program. The ASDDS program prioritizes the following areas:
- Greatest economic and/or social need
- Severity of disability
- Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders
- Individuals living in rural areas
- Individuals who are at risk for institutional placement
Not just today, but every day we feel that ND seniors deserve the opportunity to learn about, try and afford AT devices so they can address the effects of aging to safely remain living in their own homes and continue contributing to our communities.
Happy National Senior Citizens Day!
Contact us at 800.895.4728 or www.ndassistive.org